Seasonal· Folegandros· Greece — Cyclades
Folegandros Lee Gusts
36° 37.2′ N · 24° 56.7′ E · approximate
When the meltemi blows, the high, cliff-edged spine of Folegandros sends fierce gusts tumbling into its lee anchorages. Karavostasis and Vathi Bay can be dangerous even when the sea inside looks calm.
Practical
Position approx: the outer Karavostasis bay. Sailing Issues: fierce WNW-NE gusts can make the port dangerous and heavy swell can penetrate. Once northerlies exceed about 35 kn, the harbour master must clear yachts from the quay because it becomes untenable. Vathi gets 'violent gusts', mostly from the NE, in a strong meltemi. George Yachts: Karavostasis is not safe in a strong meltemi, and Vathi/Agkali gets very strong gusts and swell. The area file lists Folegandros among the Cyclades' katabatic-gust hot spots. Tactics: watch the forecast for 30 kn-plus days, leave before the wind peaks or don't arrive, lay maximum scope, and choose a shelter on Sikinos or Ios's south coast instead. In southerlies, the north-coast Voreina bay becomes the refuge.
Best for
Deciding whether Folegandros is safe today
Season
Jun-Sep, peaking Jul-Aug
Nearby
- Chochlidia & Vardia Beaches (Karavostasis)0.3 NM away
- Folegandros Boat Taxis & Island Tours0.3 NM away
- Folegandros Port Police0.3 NM away
- Folegandros Provisions0.3 NM away
- Karavostasis Tavernas (Folegandros)0.3 NM away
- Karavostasis Harbour (Folegandros)0.4 NM away
- Vitsentzou Bay (Folegandros)0.7 NM away
- Folegandros Fuel & Water1 NM away